Recipe: Sesame Green Bean Salad

With a 3 1/2 year old and an almost 18 month old at home, I am always on the lookout for mealtime options that are not only healthy, but fun and appealing to the whole crowd. Good news is my partner-in-crime of a husband isn't real picky, so there is one table-mate I don't have to work too hard to please! The miniature ones however, can sometimes be a different story....depending on the day....or the hour.

When I saw this recipe today, I got all excited because I know for sure that it would be a winner at our dinner table. Heck, maybe even breakfast if it is a "choosy" day for the littles. And, I even learned a new trick (stop with the "old dog" image in your head already...). Did you know that if you soak green beans in ice water after steaming them, they return to their beautiful vibrant green selves again? Who knew? Not me!

In the spirit of broadening the family palette, let's put a little Asian spin on green bean salad with this one that is sure to be a table pleaser!

Sesame Green Bean Salad

 

Mama Chef Extraordinaire: Jennifer Tyler Lee (www.crunchacolor.com)

When to Introduce: In its natural state, this is a perfect finger food for those new self-feeders - you know your child and their eating abilities best. Additionally, this can be pureed into flavorful puree for those new eaters in your house as early as 9 months (be sure to ask a pediatrician if you have any questions)

Why We Love It: A super simple dish that puts a new spin on a classic side dish. Also, a great opportunity to get your little ones involved in the kitchen! Let them be in charge of sprinkling the sesame seeds onto the green beans before serving....ever met a preschooler who doesn't like to sprinkle? Me either....

Ingredients

1 pound green beans, trimmed and washed
2 tsp rice vinegar
½ tsp sesame seed oil
1 tsp sesame seeds

Directions:
1. Steam the green beans in a basket over boiling water for about 10 minutes, until crisp-tender. Steam a little less if you prefer your green beans on the crunchy side. Steaming your vegetables is one of the best ways to help retain their nutrients.

2. Give the beans a bath in ice water, to bring back their color.

3. Toss gently with the rice vinegar, sesame oil and sesame seeds.

 Servings: Makes about 4 average size portions...more for younger kiddos!

I think I am making this one tonight for sure! I need a crowd pleaser!